In an interview with The Beat FM on Friday, January 26, 2024, Ayra Starr, shared her exhilarating reaction upon learning about her Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for her hit song “Rush.”
While touring in Germany, the 21-year-old artist narrated the surprise of receiving numerous calls and messages from friends and colleagues, breaking the news of her Grammy nomination. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Ayra Starr expressed, “Thank you Jesus. I just went to sleep. I didn’t even like do anything. I just went to sleep. Hmm. You’ve tried.”
For Ayra Starr, the Grammy nod is considered the pinnacle of her hard work in the previous year, an honor she hadn’t anticipated. Despite the achievement, the self-proclaimed ‘Sabi Girl’ emphasized staying true to herself and resisting the pressures associated with industry expectations. She stressed her commitment to musical excellence and personal growth.
In her own words, “I feel like if you allow pressure to consume you, you’re not going to do anything. So, I feel like just do your thing. That’s how I’ve been doing, just staying in my lane, doing my thing. Whatever wants to happen will happen. I didn’t ask for any Grammys nomination. I just did my thing and I got it. If I don’t get it next year, probably, or this year, but, you know, I am not going to kill myself. I’m just going to continue working.”
Responding to questions about potential burnout, Ayra Starr conveyed her unwavering dedication to her craft, citing consistent practice and a commitment to delivering quality to her fans. She emphasized the evolution in her performances over the years and stated, “I don’t think that point is coming anytime soon because I have a commitment to excellence, and it’s like, I know what am here to do.”
"Thank You Jesus"
Ayra Starr speaks about her reaction after being informed of her #Grammys nomination. pic.twitter.com/lekqENci3D
— 🐬 @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) January 26, 2024
Ayra Starr, competing with industry heavyweights like Davido, Burna Boy, and Olamide, holds the distinction of being the first and youngest Nigerian female artist nominated in the Best African Music Performance category. Her remarkable achievement sets a precedent for young artists in the industry.
The anticipation for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, where the winners will be announced, builds as the ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles in February 2024.